Whole Foods, Nordstrom Rack Possible at CityGate

Rochester could be getting some famous stores soon. Nordstrom Rack and Whole Foods have expressed interest in locating at CityGate, according to the developer. A Costco has already committed to the site.

"I don't want to get anyone excited that we've signed anybody, but Nordstrom Rack has been in touch with us, as well as Whole Food and some of the others that follow Costco around," said Anthony Costello. "There's probably about 50 or 60 retailers that follow Costco around from city to city because they bring the same type of clientele that Costco draws."

The Rochester area does not have a Nordstrom Rack or Whole Foods. Costello said Fresh Market is also interested.

CityGate is a $250 million development on the former Iola campus at East Henrietta and Westfall roads. The last of the old Iola buildings is coming down this week. In addition to the retail component, it will include 300 canalside apartments and a hotel.

Costco would like to be open by next August or September.

"I can't tell you the number of people since Costco announced it's coming to Rochester that have called my office and want to know when they're coming, thanking me as though I was the great provider of Costco to the area," Costello said.

Meantime, Monroe County and the state are still working to relocate the children's detention center, which sits right where Costco will be built. The county may house the children in Buffalo or Syracuse until a new facility at Industry in Rush is ready.

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